"An ideal program to enrich all classes-not only those that include students with learning differences-and help students understand that by concentrating on their strengths, they will be able to become successful and contribute to society"
- School Library Journal
Many highly successful people are challenged by learning differences. This program is a collection of stories meant to inspire and encourage all learners. Some of the people profiled are famous. Others are young achievers who have already achieved great success in variety of fields. For those with LD, the stories show that having difficulties in school doesn’t mean they’re stupid and that they can focus on their strengths to make important contributions to society. For those who don’t have LD, the stories will help them understand what it is like to have LD and that people with LD can go far in life. Produced by Human Relations Media
Includes:
video, plus teacher’s resource book, student handouts and pre/post tests in digital format
Awards
Blingy Award: Diamond Award
Silver Telly Award
Reviews
Young people with learning differences often feel alone, ashamed, and discouraged. This film demonstrates that people like them have been successful and have surmounted their challenges by profiling five people who have overcome dyslexia, ADD, and ADHD and excelled in their chosen fields. A young man with dyslexia became a race car driver and acknowledged that if he didn't achieve the winners circle, he would find another vocation to satisfy his passion of working with his hands. A physician did not learn that she had ADD until adulthood, but even her late diagnosis has helped her in excelling in the work that she loves. A famous paleontologist, a Harvard undergraduate, and a singer/songwriter in New Orleans are also profiled and explain how, once they were diagnosed, they were able to triumph over their learning differences. Each profile includes live-action footage, photos, and a testimonial by the individual explaining how he or she got help. The accompanying binder includes discussion questions, student activities, quizzes, a bibliography, and more. An ideal program to enrich all classes—not only those that include students with learning differences—and help students understand that by concentrating on their strengths, they will be able to become successful and contribute to society.
- Ann Weber, Bellarmine College Prep., San Jose, CA
School Library Journal
Recommended The film features five people with learning differences: three with dyslexia and two with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Part of the video’s appeal is the interesting array of vocations and talents represented by the subjects. Profiled are race car driver Dean Abbey, physician Liza Giamaria, paleontologist Jack Horner, Harvard University student Bree Sterne, and musician Philip Manuel. The film is visually rich and convincing because the subjects are filmed not only as talking heads but also actively pursuing their passions. We see them at the racetrack, with a patient in the examining room, at a dig, on campus, and on stage.
The participants frankly describe some of the challenges of coping with a learning disability, such as trouble with linear processing, lack of organizational skills, acting out, and low self- esteem. The frustrations of diagnostic delay and the importance of adaptive strategies and tools are discussed. “Getting help” vignettes describe how crucial the assistance of parents, teachers, specialists, and tutors can be in meeting the learning challenges. The subjects share the insight that unique strengths have helped them to pursue their goals. These strong points—visual and spatial skills, empathy, perseverance, and lack of fear of failure—have enabled them to achieve success in their chosen fields.
A loose-leaf teacher’s resource book is included to supplement the film. It contains student activities and fact sheets. The film could be useful in both counseling and classroom venues. It is appropriate for audiences of a wide range of ages as interviewees model the importance of lifelong learning.
- Highby, University of Northern Colorado
Educational Media Reviews Online (EMRO)